best all around camcorder for $500-600?

[hevnsnt]

We are looking for a camcorder.. Budget is $500-600.. We want minidv format and probably 3ccd.

Anyone have any recomendations for the best one in that range?

 

[Ornery]

probably 3ccd

That feature, at that price, will almost certainly be a Sony, but I've done zero searching to be sure. The unit I'm planning on getting next is in the $1,200 range, and a Panasonic... I think. No time to search for links at the moment, and no money to spare for it anyway!

Edit: Found a spare second...

The Panasonic PV-GS400 is the best camcorder value I've ever reviewed.

 

[RossMAN]

Another option is the Canon Optura 50 for $599.25 at Dell.com after 25% off coupon (for Canon camcorders) which expires soon.